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Mary van der Voort Wilmer

Mary Wilmer Obituary

Mary van der Voort Wilmer, of Charlotte, NC, born September 13, 1923, died suddenly on April 3, 2002 of an apparent heart attack after her daily workout.
Mary, affectionately known as "Goggie" by her grandchildren, was loved by many. Previously employed at the Chemical Dependency Center, she was well-known and respected throughout alcohol treatment and recovery circles. Mary was also a wonderful writer who touched people with her beautiful words. She was very active at St. Peter's Catholic Church, volunteering countless hours helping those in need and supporting the church.
But more than anything, Mary will be remembered for her authentic desire to positively influence all those with whom she came into contact. She was a passionate woman and strong athlete. Mary was an inspirational woman that lived a spiritual and simple life.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 3:00 PM Saturday, April 6, 2002 at St. Peter's Catholic Church by The Reverend Mickey Martinez, S.J., Celebrant.
She is survived by her son, Henry Bond Wilmer, Jr. of Andover, MA; three daughters, Emily Wilmer of St. Paul, MN, Helen Wilmer Nance of Albemarle, NC and Molly Wilmer Barker, of Charlotte; and brothers Thom van der Voort and A. B. van der Voort, both of Alexandria, VA. She is also survived by her 10 grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, please send your contributions to The Oratory, PO Box 11586, Rock Hill, SC 29731; Blessed Trinity Shrine Retreat, 107 Holy Trinity Road, Holy Trinity, AL 36859; Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Charlotte, 1123 South Church Street, Charlotte, NC 28203; Alcoholics Anonymous, 1427 South Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28203; or Girls on the Run International, 1816 Lyndhurst Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28203.
Harry and Bryant Company is serving the family of Mrs. Wilmer.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Charlotte Observer from Apr. 5 to Apr. 6, 2002.

Memories and Condolences
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5 Entries

Sarah Wilson

April 16, 2002

I was the nurse who started CPR on Ms. Wilmer at the Harris YMCA; please know that I prayed with every breath I gave her that God would bring her back. My prayers are with each of you... I teach CPR and I want you to know I - and all the others - we tried our best, but obviously God saw fit to take her from us.... I regret that I never had the opportunity to know her....Sarah

Scott and Pam Heatherly

April 6, 2002

As two of the adults who were privileged to join St. Peter's Catholic Church through RCIA, we are so grateful to have known Mary and realize her beautiful soul. She was present and supportive with many hugs at our confirmation at the Easter Vigil last Saturday. We will always remember her with great love.

Harris childwatch staff

April 6, 2002

We will all miss seeing Mary at the Harris YMCA. She had an inner beauty and a wonderful smile that we will all remember for years to come.

Leah van der Voort MacFarlane

April 5, 2002

I will always remember Aunt Mary's fabulous sense of humour, her keen mind, and her beautiful spirit. There is comfort that she left us in mid-stride, never having been hobbled by the fetters of old age. We will miss her so very much.

Kathy Groce

April 5, 2002

Mary is a great and loving spirit who will live long in the hearts of those who knew her. Thanks Mary.

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